Nearly destroyed a year ago by Superstorm Sandy, a popular shoreline restaurant is about to close so that crews can renovate the building.

The Dock & Dine in Old Saybrook, which has been in business for more than 70 years, will be torn down and rebuilt in time for next season.

The new building has already been designed. When the 3,000 square foot restaurant reopens, it will feature a grander view of the river and the Long Island Sound and the main floor as well the entry way will be gutted.

"(It's) bittersweet," said Dock & Dine General Manager Mari Kodama. "The building has a lot of history, a lot of memories but we're looking forward to building more."

Many faithful patrons filled the dining room at the Dock & Dine Wednesday to enjoy the favorite meals before the renovation started.

One of those people enjoying a meal on Wednesday was the former owner, 102-year-old Sophie Waters.

"Because its a nice area, you feel so good here," Waters said. "You feel very comfortable, the people very friendly."

Many of the patrons Friday said that they were excited to see the new restaurant and were not shedding any tears.

Everything at the restaurant that is not nailed down will be auctioned off on Nov. 5.

"There's a little bit for everybody who's interested in taking a piece of the Dock & Dine with them," Kodama said.